Page:Marquis de Sade - Adelaide of Brunswick.djvu/40

 "Then you think Adelaide is innocent?"

"Ungrateful one, how could you doubt it?"

"Let's hurry to deliver her. The dagger which struck Kaunitz may fall on her. Dear count, we do not have a moment to lose!"

"This precipitation might spoil everything. You must be careful to preserve yourself from suspicions. Do not have them fall on you, since they do not weigh on you now. I am the only one who can help you to achieve what you want, but since you no longer trust me, perhaps I should not bother about helping you."

"Ah, my dear count, I have never accused you of anything; it is only misfortune which I blame. Can you think of any harder luck than we have had?When are we going to release Adelaide? With whom is she now? Upon what does her fate depend? And how can Frederick make people believe that the one who has just served the state so well could be guilty of betraying it? They will imagine all sorts of things and will dishonor the purest of women. On top of all the sorrow I have, I will have the shame of seeing the glory of my beloved tarnished by vile tongues and not be able to defend her."

"Let's deliver her, my friend. As soon as she is free you will be in a better position to help her."

"Where could I take her? That would be robbing her forever of the right of occupying the throne on which destiny has placed her."

"Frederick could declare that she is innocent."

"Such an act would be of value to someone who was guilty, but would only hurt someone who was innocent … Who commands the Chateau of Torgau?"

"A man who has taken part in many of the wars of the Empire. His daughter, who is young and intelligent, has been charged with keeping the princess company."

"How can we get her out of there?"

"Easier than you think."

"You are right about my not doing anything to get her out. I should neither protea nor direa her escape, since I am believed innocent and should maintain that feeling towards me.

"Let's separate," said the count suddenly, "I see that people